In a nutshell, this memoir breaks down the Full History of Manuel Ugarte. We tell the story of a boy from Ciudad de la Costa (Uruguay) who has been driven by a fighting spirit since he was a child. Ugarte, a boy possessed with the Uruguayan Charrúa spirit, embarked on his football odyssey as a young dreamer.
Ugarte’s entry into professional football at the remarkably young age of 15 has garnered him much praise. Furthermore, he ascended to the position of club captain by the time he was 18. However, Ugarte’s accomplishments didn’t stop there.
He surged into European football prominence with his extraordinary performances. Possessed by the Charrúa spirit, he accomplished an impressive 12 tackles in a single Champions League game, an achievement that secured his place with Paris Saint-Germain.
Manuel Ugarte: A Baller Driven by the Uruguayan Charrúa Spirit
Our Manuel Ugarte Biography tells you Facts about his Childhood Story, Early Life, Parents – Floro Ugarte (Father), Sabina Rivero (Mother), Floro Melitón Ugarte, AKA Herni (only brother), Family Background, Love Life, Grandfather, etc.
This article on Ugarte also provides details of his Family Origin, Hometown, Education, Ethnicity, Religion, etc. Not forgetting, we’ll unveil the Lifestyle, Personal Life, Net Worth and Salary Breakdown of the Uruguayan Defensive Midfielder.
Preamble:
This article on Manuel Ugarte begins by unveiling notable events of his boyhood years. Next, we’ll take you through the early years of his career, where he played as a Striker. We’ll go further to explain why he converted to a box-to-box midfielder, including his subsequent rise to stardom.
We hope to whet your autobiography appetite as we engage you in reading Manuel Ugarte’s biography. To begin doing that, let’s unveil this photo gallery that tells the story of Manuel’s early years and subsequent rise. You’ll agree with me that Ugarte has been through an incredible journey.
From Boyhood Dreams to Stardom: Witness the Extraordinary Journey of Manuel Ugarte. Image: Instagram/ugartemanu.
Yes, everyone knows the Uruguayan Defensive Midfielder is an astute tackler, a defensive monster who is not afraid to put his leg into any challenge and win the ball. In summary, Ugarte is highly aggressive and tenacious in his gameplay.
Driven by a fighting spirit found in Declan Rice, football fans view him as a master in the Art of Central Solidity. Here is proof!
As we recount the rich history of Uruguay’s midfielders in the beautiful game of football, we’ve unearthed a significant gap. Surprisingly, there seems to be a scarcity of comprehensive biographical accounts of Manuel Ugarte, an intriguing character.
Answering the urgent call to fill this void, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to craft this piece. So, let’s dive right into the compelling story of the Defensive Midfielder without further delay.
Manuel Ugarte Childhood Story:
For Biography starters, he bears the nickname “Manu”. And his full names are – Manuel Ugarte Ribeiro. The Uruguayan professional footballer was born on the 1st day of April 2001 to his Parents, who are South Americans, in the city of Montevideo, Uruguay.
Manuel Ugarte is one among other siblings, notably his older brother Herni Ugarte, born to the union between his Mum and Dad. Their parents, while their names have not been publicly disclosed, have significantly contributed to laying the groundwork for his success.
To the left stands Manuel Ugarte’s mother, and centrally positioned is his father. Credit: Instagram/ugartemanu.
Growing-Up Years:
Manuel Ugarte spent his childhood at Ciudad de la Costa, his hometown in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. Our research has it that the Baller spent the bulk of his early years near Lagomar, in the Ciudad de la Costa neighbourhood where his entire family lived.
The Defensive Midfielder grew up alongside his older brother, Herni Ugarte. Manuel and Henri have a deep bond of brotherliness, mutual respect, and understanding. Growing up and even to this day, the Ugarte brothers often tell each other these words.
“Your achievements are mine, and mine are yours.”
The Unbreakable Bond of Manuel and Herni Ugarte. The brothers are both bonded by Mutual Respect and Shared Achievements. Credit: Instagram.com/ugartemanu.
Manuel Ugarte Early Years:
The Midfielder had his first taste of competitive football at a field named City Park in Ciudad de la Costa, close to Lagomar, the neighbourhood where his parents lived.
Manuel was among the best strikers in his age group. While he honed his skills as a forward (at that time), he got scouted and got the opportunity to join CA Fénix, a top club in his city.
Young Manuel Ugarte began his football journey as a dreamer. Following his arrival in Europe at age 20, the Baller once reflected on his early beginnings in the following words;
I dreamed of it since I was little. One of those dreams that every child has when he meets a ball.
Today, living it at the age of 20, for me is touching the sky with my hands.
Manuel Ugarte Family Background:
The talented Defensive Midfielder was nurtured in a home that may not have been affluent but provided an environment rich in humility and love. His father, the patriarch of a tight-knit, middle-class family of four, earned a modest income.
An income that sufficed for a comfortable life in Ciudad de la Costa, a charming suburb on the outskirts of Uruguay’s capital city.
Strength in Unity: Behold the Beaming household of the Ugartes. Source: IG/ugartemanu.
Manuel Ugarte Family Origin:
There is perhaps something you don’t know about the Defensive Midfielder who joined Luis Enrique‘s PSG team in 2023. While research shows that Manuel Ugarte’s Parents are both from Uruguay, very little is known about his origins as it relates to the beautiful game. Now, let’s tell you.
Do you know?… Uruguay is a South American country driven by the fighting spirit of their ancestors who once put their lives on the line for victory.
Not many football fans know that the ability of native Uruguyans to defend and die for their country has a connection with the country’s Football. This unique connection is embodied in the term ‘Garra Charrúa.’
First, the term ‘Garra Charrúa’ portrays the nation of Uruguay as the perennial underdog country. In a near-impossible battle against enemies from the outside, the nation’s stoic resistance once saw its indigenous people (in the early 1800s) defend their territory against a more powerful Spanish military force.
Now, let’s break down the term ‘Garra Charrúa’. “Charrúa” is the name of the indigenous people of Uruguay. And the word “Garras” means claws, which is the weapon the indigenous people of the country once used in their war against Spanish forces.
The connection to football:
Do you know?… the nickname ‘Claw of the Charrúa’ was given to the Uruguayan national football team. This nickname, ‘Claw of the Charrúa’, is inspired by the fierce, strong and warrior-looking nature of Uruguay’s Charrúa people.
Manuel Ugarte, like his country’s legendary footballers (the likes of Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani), is known to possess the fighting spirit of the Charrúa people. These Athletes, who have made a name for themselves in football, have in them a team’s fighting spirit and never-say-die attitude.
Moving away from history, Manuel Ugarte’s family hails Ciudad de la Costa. As noticed from the map below, Ciudad de la Costa is an extension of the metropolitan area of Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital.
Ugarte’s proud lineage rooted in Ciudad de la Costa, a scenic locale stretching out from the bustling metropolitan heart of Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. Image credit: GoogleMaps, WikipediaCommons.
Manuel Ugarte Ethnicity:
Although the Athlete draws strength from his country’s indigenous Charrúa people, his ancestry is tied to the mixed European ethnic composition.
In simple terms, Manuel Ugarte identifies with his country’s mixed European ethnic group. Fellow international teammates Rodrigo Bentancur and Facundo Pellistri identify with this ethnic group.
Manuel Ugarte Education:
Research shows that the PSG midfielder completed his pre-primary schooling at Lagomar, the neighbourhood where he spent his early childhood.
While the exact primary school Ugarte attended is unknown, our source reveals he successfully multitasked between primary schooling and playing football during his time with Centro Atlético Fénix. Now, let’s dive properly into his career.
Manuel Ugarte Biography – Football Story:
The Uruguayan Defensive Midfielder laid the foundation of his career with City Park. When Manuel Ugarte got scouted (because of his huge potential), he agreed to join only one club. That club was at CA Fénix.
This is a Uruguayan sports club from Montevideo founded on the 7th of July 1916. CA Fénix was formed by a group of young men who agreed to name the club “Fénix” Phoenix after the famous immortal bird (associated with Greek mythology).
Ugarte progressed with the youth ranks as a talented boy who was labelled as a ‘jack of all trades’.
Formerly known as a striker, he ended up becoming a “box-to-box” midfielder with plenty of leadership qualities. Ugarte came through Fénix’s academy, and he joined the club’s first team at the tender age of 15.
After his professional debut (on the 4th of December 2016), the youngster broke a rare record.
Do you know?… Ugarte, at the age of 15 years and 233 days, became the youngest-ever footballer in the 21st century to play professionally in Uruguay.
Manuel Ugarte Bio – Road to Fame:
A few years after he became a pro, the former striker witnessed the first taste of his international success.
Much to his family’s delight, Ugarte secured a spot in the 23-man squad for the 2020 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament. With his on-field prowess, he significantly contributed to Uruguay’s achievement of a third-place finish.
Under the leadership of Juan Ramón Carrasco, Ugarte was appointed as the captain of his club, Centro Atlético Fénix. Can you believe it? This swiftly ascending star assumed this leadership role at the young age of 18. His assumption of this responsibility at such a young age, along with his immense talent, made it clear to all that he was destined for an impressive career trajectory.
Thanks to Ugarte’s performance in the South American Cup games and his country’s Olympic team, he caught the attention of clubs in Portugal. The Striker-turned-Midfielder joined the Primeira Liga club, FC Famalicão, on a five-year contract.
Leaving the club that laid the foundation of his success wasn’t that easy. Ugarte left this emotional message following his departure from Fénix, his childhood club.
The time has come to say goodbye to the club that trained me and saw me grow into a man. To the neighbourhood club, humble and simple.
They were years where I fulfilled my dreams and lived very beautiful moments.
There were years where I met many people who helped me grow and train as a player, but mainly as a person.
Today I have to take a step in my career, with the aim of continuing to grow and seeking to go for more every day.
Manuel Ugarte Biography – European Success Story:
Do you know? It only took six months before one of the biggest clubs in Portugal came forward and stole him away from FC Famalicão. Yes, in just over half a season after Ugarte’s arrival in Portugal, a host of top clubs began circling around him like sharks.
Ugarte got sold, and he, alongside Pablo Sarabia, became Sporting CP’s best signing for the 2021/2022 season. His arrival at Sporting CP came at a time the Portuguese club witnessed the departure of their best young talent to PSG, the person of Nuno Mendes.
While at Sporting CP, Manuel Ugarte provided competition to his fellow teammate, João Palhinha. He joined a top team that boasts many young talents like the elegant Pedro Porro, Midfielder Matheus Nunes (CM), Gonzalo Plata and Pedro Gonçalves. Following João Palhinha’s departure to Fulham, Ugarte cemented his starting position with Sporting CP.
Interestingly, Ugarte’s very first goal with Sporting CP came against his former employer, club Famalicão. The Defensive Midfielder, initially signed as back-up to João Palhinha, had an instant rise with a series of impressive performances.
Earning the trust of the manager, he helped his team win the 2021/2022 Taça da Liga trophy. As a reward for his hard work, the Rising Star won the Sporting CP’s 2022 Breakthrough Player of the Year award.
Even more special was the fact that Manuel Ugarte showed some red-hot form in the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League season. Shockingly, the total number of tackles he made in the group stage totalled 34.
This number was the highest made by any player that season in the European competition. When Ugarte made an unbelievable 12 tackles in a Champions League match (a 3–0 away win against Djibril Sow‘s Eintracht), the biggest European clubs noticed his prowess.
Transfer to PSG:
Following their Champions League elimination at the hands of Julian Nagelsmann‘s Bayern Munich team, the French Giant identified a midfield area that needed reinforcement.
So they immediately fought fiercely against the likes of Chelsea, who were at the forefront of signing the Uruguayan. On the 15th day of June 2023, Ugarte (via the Portuguese newspaper Record) confirmed he had joined PSG.
With a number of EPL clubs interested in the Player’s signature, Manuel himself felt it was best for him to join PSG, who triggered his €60 million release clause. So, the Rising Star became one of the Parisians’ 2023 summer arrivals (BBC Football). Among these summer arrivals include the likes of Lucas Hernández (brother to Theo Hernandez), Kang-in Lee, Marco Asensio and Hugo Ekitiké (permanent loan signing).
At the time of writing Manuel Ugarte’s Biography, his Art of Central Solidity is seen by fans as the recipe for success for PSG. And also, the Uruguayan national team, which, as of 2023, was managed by the Great Marcelo Bielsa.
Surely, Manu will put up a challenge to his midfield utility teammates, Marco Verratti and Vitinha. Also, the fast-rising star, Warren Zaire-Emery. And who knows, his prowess might be behind PSG winning the Champions League in the 2023/2024 season. The rest, as we say, is now history.
Who is Manuel Ugarte’s Girlfriend?
Achieving so much at a young age and securing a €60 million deal with PSG definitely makes a statement. It illustrates Ugarte’s trajectory towards success and his high regard in the field of football. As the adage goes, behind every triumphant Uruguayan footballer is a glamorous woman. In light of this, we’ve raised the essential question.
Who is Ugarte dating?
Football Fans have asked… Is there a glamorous woman behind this triumphant Uruguayan?
As of writing this biography, the Uruguayan defensive midfielder is wholly devoted to his sport. When observed during his off-time, Ugarte seems to steer clear of public relationships, which could potentially divert his focus from his career objectives. Moreover, he chooses to publicly channel his energy into playing, training, and honing his skills.
Personal Life Outside Football:
Who is Manuel Ugarte?
Indeed, numerous football enthusiasts have lauded Ugarte’s versatile midfield skills. Much like N’Golo Kante during his peak years, Ugarte displays an unyielding tenacity akin to a relentless wolf when he initiates his tackles, all in pursuit of the ball.
Interestingly, though, off the pitch, Ugarte transforms into a docile lamb. Studies indicate that he is an extraordinarily serene person who leads a quiet, ordinary life in his Parisian home.
At Home with Ugarte: The fierce midfielder on the pitch transforms into a picture of tranquillity off it, reflecting serenity and gentleness in the comfort of his Parisian abode.
Manuel Ugarte’s Lifestyle:
Recently, particularly since he started his football career in Europe, the footballer has developed a penchant for spending time amidst nature. His favourite destinations, places where he feels a profound sense of serenity from the natural surroundings, have been found to be two specific locations.
This is Ugarte exploring Europe’s Hidden Gems: The sun-soaked charm of Portugal’s Algarve on the left and the lush, coastal allure of Galicia, Spain on the right. Credit:
Depicted on the left side of the following photograph is The Algarve, located in the southernmost part of Portugal. This tourist destination is celebrated for its charming fishing villages, breathtaking Atlantic beaches, and exceptional golf resorts.
On the right side of the above image is Galicia, Spain. This lush region with an Atlantic shoreline is famed for its seafood and fishing industries, which are pillars of Spain’s economy and culture.
Does Manuel Ugarte own a Car?
Surprisingly, Ugarte, who has an estimated annual income of around €6,189,499, hasn’t been seen with a high-end vehicle, one which is commensurate with his earnings.
Unlike many footballers with similar salaries, he doesn’t appear to have a passion for collecting opulent cars, as evidenced by their absence on his social media accounts. The Uruguayan has even been observed taking a taxi, demonstrating his humble and unpretentious lifestyle.
A Different Kind of Drive: Ugarte, the down-to-earth football star who, unlike his contemporaries, opts for taxis over luxury cars, emphasizing simplicity amidst his extraordinary football earnings.
Manuel Ugarte Family Life:
From his childhood days in Ciudad de la Costa, the footballer has always cherished the benefits of a tightly-knit family environment. This section provides insights into Manuel’s positive relationships with his family members. Let’s begin with the head of the Ugarte household.
Manuel Ugarte Father:
Deeply tied to his roots, he is someone who appreciates the comfort of his native land and loves to spend quality with his son. One of the cherished moments often repeated involves Manuel and his father at the swimming pool.
In this instance, Manuel’s father exhibited a casual aura, sitting poolside and watching his son, who lounges in the water donning a stylish hat. Speaking of the strength of their bond, both father and son often have this great exchange of smiles, shared laughter, and relaxing demeanors.
About Manuel Ugarte Mother:
Prior to her marriage, she was known by her maiden name, Ribeiro, which is also the maternal family name of her son. One thing Manuel Ugarte longs for while playing in Europe are those precious holiday moments spent with his mother. This is the driving force behind the PSG star’s consistent visits to Uruguay during football breaks.
Mother-Son Connection: The PSG star frequently cherishes and preserves these precious moments.
It’s often said that there’s a unique bond between mothers and their youngest children, regardless of gender. Therefore, it’s not surprising to see the close connection between Manuel and his mother. She remains his guiding light, his first love, and his biggest cheerleader.
A heartwarming view of the Uruguayan professional footballer and his Mum.
Manuel Ugarte Siblings:
Upon conducting comprehensive research, it has been revealed that the former Sporting CP star does not have a sister, but an elder brother. Herni Ugarte, according to our findings, did not follow the path to professional football. Although his exact profession remains unknown, we are confident that Herni is thriving in his chosen career field.
Manuel and his brother Herni were caught in a moment of shared joy in the comfort of their living room.
About Manuel Ugarte Grandparents:
Within his extended family, his grandfather stands out as a particularly influential figure. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Manuel characterizes his grandfather, alongside his father, as “The driving forces behind everything I am experiencing”. Pictured here is a 2020 snapshot of the footballer, sharing a moment with his father and grandfather in El Pinar, Canelones, Uruguay.
Behold the ‘driving forces’ behind Ugarte’s journey, captured in a heartfelt moment.
Untold Facts:
In the final phase of Manuel Ugarte’s Biography, we’ll unveil more truths you might not know about him. Without further ado, let’s begin.
Manuel Ugarte Salary:
The contract he signed with PSG in June 2023 sees him pocketing the sum of €6,189,499 annually. When this money is converted to Uruguayan currency, it equals $U256,492,838 yearly and $U4,924,977 weekly.
How rich is the Defensive midfielder?
Where Manuel Ugarte’s Parents raised him, (Ciudad de la Costa, Montevideo), a person working will typically earn around 394,500 UYU per year (highest average). Such a person would need 12.4 months to earn Ugarte’s weekly earnings with PSG.
Manuel Ugarte FIFA:
Similar to Moisés Caicedo (Ecuadorian), Romeo Lavia (Belgian), Sandro Tonali (Italian), etc he lacks nothing in football aside from goalkeeping and attacking. As revealed by SOFIFA, Ugarte’s biggest strengths are his stamina, interceptions, and standing tackle.
Meet the Maestro of Midfield, whose arsenal of skills includes an abundance of interceptions, standing tackles, and impressive stamina.
Manuel Ugarte Religion:
Unlike his ex-international teammates, Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, the PSG sportsperson isn’t known for publicly displaying his religious beliefs. Nevertheless, it is probable that Manuel Ugarte aligns with his country’s predominant religion, which is Roman Catholicism.
EndNote:
Known by the nickname “Manu”, Manual Ugarte was born on the 11th day of April 2001 to Uruguayan parents in his country’s capital city (Montevideo). The Combative footballer grew up alongside his older brother, Herni, in his hometown, Ciudad de la Costa.
As a little boy, young Manuel saw himself as a dreamer who aspired to reach the biggest stage of the sport. He ventured into football early by enrolling with City Park, a local soccer team in his hometown. After showing lots of promise, Ugarte joined Fénix’s youth setup, a top club in his country.
Interestingly, Manuel began his youth career as a striker before converting to midfield and turning pro. Under the command of Fénix’s manager, Rosario Martíne, the boy from Ciudad de la Costa went on to achieve a meteoric rise.
Again, after barely two seasons as a professional, the joys of Manuel Ugarte’s Parents knew no bounds as their son got called to captain his country’s under-20 junior national team. The fearless leader helped his national team to finish in third place in the 2020 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament.
Senior career rise:
The box-to-box midfielder who captained his team at eighteen. By doing that, he caught the attention of clubs in Europe. Europe clubs were all after him after his success at the South American Cup games. FC Famalicão signed Manuel Ugarte in December 2020. Despite not being one of Ivo Vieira’s starters, the club found the youngster useful.
In his first season in Europe, Ugarte helped Famalicão to fight for the Europa Conference League qualification, which the club missed narrowly. His short achievement with the club attracted Sporting CP, who signed him on a five-year contract.
Manuel Ugarte quickly rose to prominence with Sporting CP, impressing with his performances and seamlessly fitting into the team. His manager, Rúben Amorim, had nothing but praise for Manu’s swift adaptation and contributions.
Ugarte began attracting top European clubs after he achieved the honour of making the most tackles and interceptions combined in the Champions League. After a tough transfer battle, PSG won the race to sign him after triggering his €60 million release clause.
Appreciation Note:
Thank you for taking the time to read our version of Manuel Ugarte’s Biography. We care about accuracy and fairness in our mission to deliver Stories relating to Uruguayan Midfielders. This article about Manu is part of our more expansive collection of South American Football Stories.
Please let us know via comment if you find anything wrong in this memoir. A memoir about the Baller who has mastered The Art of Central Solidity. Also, in the comment section, tell us what you think about Manu.
Aside from Manuel Ugarte’s Bio, we’ve got other interesting Uruguayan stories for your read. Have you read the Life History of Ronald Araujo and Facundo Torres?
